Ankara: The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that recently struck Venezuela has risen to 1,450, according to National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez. In a televised address, Rodriguez also reported that more than 3,150 individuals have been injured, with 12,721 people displaced or otherwise affected by the disaster and 774 buildings collapsed.
According to Anadolu Agency, Rodriguez stated that search and rescue operations are still underway. Over 25,000 rescuers, including military personnel, police officers, civil protection teams, the Red Cross, and other organizations are engaged in efforts to save lives. Additionally, 2,624 international rescue workers are contributing to the relief operations, accompanied by 137 dogs and 49 support vehicles.
On the previous day, Rodriguez had reported that 1,430 people were killed and 3,238 others injured. The updated figures underscore the severity of the situation.
According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquakes, which measured magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck Venezuela on Wednesday, just 39 seconds apart. The 7.5 magnitude earthquake hit 23 kilometers southeast of Yumare in Yaracuy state, while the 7.2 magnitude tremor occurred 23.9 kilometers northeast of San Felipe, also in Yaracuy state.